APPLICATION UNDER

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

DOCKET DOT-OST-2014-0133 

SUMMARY INFORMATION1

All applicants must submit this Summary Information schedule, as the application 

coversheet, a completed standard form SF424 and the full application proposal on 

www.grants.gov. 

For your preparation convenience, this Summary Information schedule is located at 

http://www.dot.gov/policy/aviation-policy/small-community-rural-air-service/SCASDP

A. PROVIDE THE LEGAL SPONSOR AND ITS DUN AND BRADSTREET (D&B) DATA UNIVERSAL 

NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBER, INCLUDING +4, EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 

(EIN) OR TAX ID.

Legal Sponsor Name: 

Name of Signatory Party for Legal Sponsor:

DUNS Number:

EIN/Tax ID:

B. LIST THE NAME OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONSORTIUM OF COMMUNITIES APPLYING: 

1.____________________________________________________ 

2.____________________________________________________ 

3.____________________________________________________ 

4.____________________________________________________ 

C. PROVIDE THE FULL AIRPORT NAME AND 3-LETTER IATA AIRPORT CODE FOR THE 

APPLICANT(S) AIRPORT(S) (ONLY PROVIDE CODES FOR THE AIRPORT(S) THAT ARE ACTUALLY 

SEEKING SERVICE).

1. 2.

3. 4.

 

1 Note that the Summary Information does not count against the 20-page limit of the SCASDP application.
DOES THE AIRPORT SEEKING SERVICE HOLD AN AIRPORT OPERATING CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY 

THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION UNDER 14 CFR PART 139? (IF “NO”, PLEASE 

EXPLAIN WHETHER THE AIRPORT INTENDS TO APPLY FOR A CERTIFICATE OR WHETHER AN 

APPLICATION UNDER PART 139 IS PENDING.) 

Yes No (explain)

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 

D. LIST THE 2-DIGIT CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CODE APPLICABLE TO THE SPONSORING 

ORGANIZATION, AND IF A CONSORTIUM, TO EACH PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY.

1. 2.

3. 4.

E. APPLICANT INFORMATION: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Not a Consortium Interstate Consortium Intrastate Consortium

Community currently receives subsidized Essential Air Service

Community (or Consortium member) previously received a Small Community Air 

Service Development Program Grant

If previous recipient: Provide year of grant(s):_______________________________; and, 

the text of the grant agreement section(s) setting forth the scope of the grant project:

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________ 

F. PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: (LIST ORGANIZATION NAMES) 

PUBLIC PRIVATE

1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 5.
G. PROJECT PROPOSAL:

 1. GRANT GOALS: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Launch New Carrier Secure Additional Service Upgrade Aircraft

First Service New Route Service Restoration

Regional Service Surface Transportation Professional Services2

Other (explain below)

2. FINANCIAL TOOLS TO BE USED: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Marketing (including Advertising): promotion of the air service to the public 

Start-up Cost Offset: offsetting expenses to assist an air service provider in setting up a 

new station and starting new service (for example, ticket counter reconfiguration)

Revenue Guarantee: an agreement with an air service provider setting forth a minimum 

guaranteed profit margin, a portion of which is eligible for reimbursement by the 

community 

Recruitment of Air Carrier: air service development activities to recruit new air service, 

including expenses for airport marketers to meet with air service providers to make the 

case for new air service

Fee Waivers: waiver of airport fees, such as landing fees, to encourage new air service; 

counted as in-kind contributions only 

Ground Handling Fee: reimbursement of expenses for passenger, cabin, and ramp (below 

wing) services provided by third party ground handlers 

Travel Bank: travel pledges, or deposited monetary funds, from participating parties for 

the purchase of air travel on an air carrier, with defined procedures for the subsequent use 

of the pledges or the deposited funds; counted as in-kind contributions only 

 

2 “Professional Services” involve a community contracting with a firm to produce a product such as a marketing 

plan, study, air carrier proposal, etc.
Other (explain below) 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

H. EXISTING LANDING AIDS AT LOCAL AIRPORT: 

Full ILS Outer/Middle Marker Published Instrument Approach 

Localizer Other (specify)

I. PROJECT COST: DO NOT ENTER TEXT IN SHADED AREA

LINE DESCRIPTION SUB TOTAL TOTAL AMOUNT

1 Federal amount requested

2 State cash financial contribution

Local cash financial contribution

3a Airport cash funds

3b Non-airport cash funds

3 Total local cash funds (3a + 3b)

4 TOTAL CASH FUNDING (1+2+3)

In-Kind contribution

5a Airport In-Kind contribution**

5b Other In-Kind contribution**

5 TOTAL IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION 

(5a + 5b) 

6 TOTAL PROJECT COST (4+5)

J. IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS**

For funds in lines 5a (Airport In-Kind contribution) and 5b (Other In-Kind contribution), please 

describe the source(s) of fund(s) and the value ($) of each.
K. IS THIS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY AN AFFECTED STATE UNDER EXECUTIVE 

ORDER 12372 PROCESS? 

a. This application was made available to the State under the Executive Order 12372 

Process for review on (date) _____________. 

b. Program is subject to E.O. 12372, but has not been selected by the State for review.

c. Program is not covered by E.O. 12372. 

L. IS THE LEAD APPLICANT OR ANY CO-APPLICANTS DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT?

(IF “YES”, PROVIDE EXPLANATION) 

No Yes (explain)

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

INCLUDED? ITEM

For Immediate Action

Determine Eligibility

New Grants.gov users must register with www.grants.gov.

Existing Grants.gov users must verify existing www.grants.gov account has not expired 

and the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) is current.

For Submission by 5:00 PM EDT on July 31, 2014

Communities with active SCASDP grants: notify DOT/X50 of intent to terminate 

existing grant in order to be eligible for selection in FY2014 

Complete Application for Federal Domestic Assistance (SF424) via www.grants.gov

Summary Information schedule complete and used as cover sheet (see Appendix B)

Application of up to 20 one-sided pages (excluding any letters from the 

community or an air carrier showing support for the application), to include:

• A description of the community’s air service needs or deficiencies.

• A strategic plan for meeting those needs under the Small Community Program.

• A detailed description of the funding necessary for implementation of the 

community's project. 

• An explanation of how the proposed project differs from any previous projects 

for which the community received SCASDP funds (if applicable). 

• Designation of a legal sponsor responsible for administering the program.

• A motion for confidential treatment (if applicable) – see Appendix D below.
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 1 

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction/Summary: City of Yakima, Legal Sponsor Page 2 

Overview of the Yakima Market Page 3 

Yakima Air Terminal Catchment Area Page 3 

Alaska Airlines at Yakima Page 4 

Yakima Load Factor History Page 5 

Market Leakage from YKM Page 5 

Yakima Meets All Eligibility Requirements for Grant Page 6 

Why is Air Service Important to Yakima? Page 6

Strategic Plan for Development of Yakima Air Service Page 8 

 Additional Alaska Markets PDX Page 8 

 Improve Existing Alaska/Horizon Schedule Page 9 

 Strengthen Alaska-Yakima Partnership Page 12 

Yakima Air Service Development Efforts For the Last 4 Years Page 12 

Summary of Yakima Strategy Page 13 

Strategic Plan Budget Page 15 

 Strategic Plan Cash Budget Page 15 

 Sources of Funds Page 15 

 Uses of Cash Funds Page 16 

Airport Status Page 17 

Letters of Support Attachments
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 2 

July 31, 2014 

Ms. Brooke Chapman 

Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

8th Floor, Room W86-307 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 

Washington D.C. 20590 

Reference: Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 

Dear Ms. Chapman, 

The City of Yakima, as the owner of the Yakima Air Terminal – McAllister Field hereby submits an 

application for a Small Community Air Service Development Program grant. 

Currently the Yakima Air Terminal (YKM) has service on Alaska/Horizon to Seattle with three flights a 

day. Unfortunately, the average scheduled departures to SEA has consistently declined in the past 10 

years, from 7 departures a day in 2004 to 6 through 2008, 4 through 2010, and currently 3 per day. The

impact was predictable, that the Yakima air travelers are primarily driving the 154 miles to Seattle, over an 

often closed mountain pass. In 2001, 46% of the Yakima air travelers drove to alternate airports. A study 

in 2004 estimated that number increased to 58%, and the most recent surveys, taken last year, estimated 

the leakage at 72%, with over 2/3rds of those travelers driving to Seattle. 

Over the recent past, however, since 2007, Yakima, and its market catchment area, has funded 

development of commercial aviation through participation of private and public entities. This includes the 

consortium that raised $650,000 in incentives to bring Sky West/Delta to Yakima, and operate nonstop 

service to their hub in Salt Lake. Unfortunately, even though the service produced enough demand to 

sustain its operation, the service was dropped in the fall of 2008 due to the combination of a deep 

recession and Delta’s merger activities with Northwest. 

The number one objective of the application of the Grant is to start a new route from Yakima to Portland 

by year 2. PDX is by far the preferred Alaska hub after SEA, and strengthen the other catchment area. 

Yakima is at a critical crossroads with its air service development. We are qualified to participate in the 

SCASD grant program, have a history of strong private/public partnerships to support air service, and 

have proven in the following pages, that we are an excellent fit for the objectives of the program. We

sincerely hope you agree and give Yakima, WA favorable consideration. 

Regards, 

Original signed by 

SEAN HAWKINS 

Sean Hawkins 

Legal Sponsor 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

City of Yakima 

Economic Development Manager 

129 N. Second Street 

Yakima, WA 98901
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 3 

Overview of McAllister Field and the Yakima (YKM) Market Area, and why YKM 

qualifies for a Small Community Air Service Development Grant in 2013.

Yakima Air Field (YKM), also known as McAllister Field, is located in central 

Washington, serving the City and County of Yakima, as well as the surrounding areas 

The Yakima Air Terminal catchment area maintains a population base of 260,000 

which encompasses 30 zip codes. The following identifies the Yakima Air Terminal 

catchment area. 

YAKIMA AIR TERMINAL CATCHMENT AREA
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 4 

The current scheduled service by Horizon has been reduced to an average of three

departures per day using 76 seat Q400’s to Seattle (SEA). Since 2007, Horizon has 

reduced departures from six per day, due to the replacement of the smaller 37 seat 

Q200’s with the larger aircraft. 

While the reduction in departures slightly increases the total seats per day offered by 

Horizon to Seattle, load factors, consistently in the low 70%, are still well below the 

average of 86.5%. 

Prior to 2005, Horizon scheduled 7 departures a day, reducing that number to 6 the 

following year. Therefore, the departures have been declining in Yakima for almost a 

decade with the trend continuing in 2010-2013. 

Consistent with the decline in scheduled frequencies, the average Horizon load factor 

has also been erratic, declining from 2008 through 2010, and then increasing with the 

reduction in seats starting in the 1st quarter, 2011. 

In addition to the Horizon/Alaska service, Sky West/Delta operated Salt Lake - Yakima 

from June 2007 through September 2008 using an air service incentive program 100% 

funded by the private Yakima interests. More detail on that important service is later in 

this document. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 5 

The result of reduced schedule options to the Yakima market has increased leakage, or 

diversion from Yakima Air Terminal to other airports, primarily Seattle, based on a 2013 

Passenger survey by RRC Associates of CO and commissioned by The City of Yakima. 

YKM Captures Just 28% of Yakima County Resident Flight 

Trips Purchased Through Travel Agencies (Online & Offline)

Originating Airport: Yakima County Residents 

Page 8

Source: May 2012 – April 2013 ARC Flight Itineraries for Yakima County residents purchased thru OTAs and travel agencies; RRC Associates.

YKM

28%

SEA

51%

PSC

15%

PDX

6%
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 6 

A 2005 study estimated that 58% of Yakima and Kittitas Counties’ passenger 

traffic leaked in 2004, and in 2001 a similar study estimated 46% leakage. That 

number is now up to 72%. Therefore Yakima is losing its originating market share, as 

well as scheduled departures, and the number of commercial airlines. Despite private 

and public efforts to support the airport, Yakima now needs to strengthen that initiative 

with a Small Community Air Service Development Program grant. 

Yakima meets all eligibility requirements for a SCASD Program Grant

 The City of Yakima, as the legal sponsor of the SCASD Program, has met all the 

registration requirements to respond to Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113, the 2014 

Grant Application. 

 Air Fares from YKM are higher than similar communities. 

 Since 1997, YKM is not larger than a small hub airport. Yakima Air 

Terminal/McAllister Field is listed as a ‘Non-hub Primary Airport in the NPIAS 

 YKM has never received any direct benefits from a SCASD Program grant 

 YKM is not an EAS subsidized community 

 The Yakima market area has established a consortium of public and private 

interests supporting air service development. 

 Yakima’s Air Development Marketing program initially covers a 2 year period, 

expanded to three years for evaluation. 

 A Yakima Consortium will contribute all most $300,000 matching funds, one a 

one to one basis in cash over the 2 year period, plus in-kind contribution as well. 

 The SCASD Program grant will increase access to a larger segment of the 

national transportation system by the Yakima Catchment area. 

 The Yakima market area covers multiple communities. 

Why is Air Service Important to the Yakima Market? 

The nearest airport with direct access to the National Transportation System is 

Seattle (SEA). Surface transportation can be very difficult during much of the 

year since it requires travel over Snoqualmie Pass, which is periodically 

closed, not only in winter months for avalanche control, but other periods of 

the year due to accidents, and construction work. Over the past 6 years, 

Snoqualmie Pass has closed an average of 150 hours per year. While this does not 

appear to be excessive, it should be emphasized that a 1 to 2 hour closure can 

disrupt scheduled travel plans. 

In addition to SEA, the other alternatives for air transportation are Tri Cities (PSC) or 

Walla Walla (ALW). 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 7 

 Driving distance to SeaTac is 152 miles, with an estimated travel time of 2:34 

hours. 

 Driving distance to Pasco is 83 miles with estimated travel time in good weather 

of 1:21 hours. 

 Driving distance to Walla Walla is 133 miles with an estimated drive time of 2:18 

hours. 

 PSC is served by United, Delta, and Alaska with scheduled nonstop service to 

Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver, Minneapolis, and Portland and enjoys lower 

average fares than Yakima passengers. 

 The population of the City of Pasco is only 60,000, while Yakima is over 90,000. 

The diverse Yakima economy is increasingly dependent on frequent, 

convenient air service. While Yakima still relies on agriculture to drive its 

economy, over 250 manufacturing firms are also located in the Yakima 

Catchment Area, producing a variety of products including aircraft parts, wood 

products, plastic products, recreational vehicles, and communications 

technology. Tourism is the fastest growing segment of the Yakima economy. 

More than 70 wineries are located in the Yakima Valley and regularly draw 

visitors to sample and buy internationally renowned varietals. Outdoor recreation, 

including water and snow skiing, fishing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, and 

white water rafting, also makes Yakima a favorite destination. 

Education is important to the Yakima catchment area and heavily dependent on 

reliable air service. In grades K through 12, the National Principal of the Year, as 

well as National Teacher of the Year, work and teach in the Yakima School District. 

Yakima is also the home of a number of institutes of higher education, including: 

o Yakima Valley Community College, enrollment 6,100 students 

o Central Washington University, enrollment 7,242 students 

o Perry Technical Institute, enrollment 400 students

o Heritage College, enrollment 1,100 students 

o Sakie International College of Cosmetology, enrollment unknown 

o City University, enrollment, 100 students 

According to a recent study by the Yakima Convention and Visitors Bureau, the 

average visitor, no matter how they travelled to Yakima, had basic expenditures of 

$300-$400 per person. Therefore, a 50% improvement to the existing air service 

should produce an estimated 30,000 visitors per year, or about $12 million 

directly into the local economy, not including the trickledown effect to the 

economy. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 8 

STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENET OF YAKIMA AIR SERVICE

Priorities and Objectives:

1) The ultimate objective of the program is adding a Yakima-Portland route, 1-2 

flights a day, with the target start date to be winter of 2015. 

2) Improve performance on existing Alaska/Horizon Seattle Schedule to assure 

long term stability. 

3) Strengthen Alaska-Yakima partnership through joint marketing and 

promotional programs 

1. The ultimate objective of the program is adding a Yakima-Portland route, 1-2 

flights a day, with the target start date to be winter of 2015.

YKM Passenger Survey

Top Choices for New YKM Flights in the Future (Other than SEA)

Page 20

Source: 2013 YKM Air Passenger Survey; RRC Associates.

29%

12%

7%

10%

8%

8%

3%

3%

10%

8%

9%

3%

6%

6%

5%

3%

4%

5%

3%

5%

4%

4%

6%

3%

43%

25%

20%

19%

18%

18%

14%

5%

5%

4%

Portland - PDX

Spokane - GEG

Salt Lake City - SLC

Los Angeles - LAX

Las Vegas - LAS

Denver - DEN

San Francisco - SFO

Boise - BOI

Phoenix - PHX

Chicago - ORD, MDW

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Top Choice

Second Choice

Third Choice

The above chart, showing the results of a study last year, commission by Yakima, 

shows the top destination, by far, is PDX. In fact, if we reference the chart on page 5 it 

illustrates 6% of the YKM market drive to PDX today to begin their trip. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 9 

In summary: 

1. The PDX service can be added instead of additional SEA frequencies 

a. At least one nonstop round trip from YKM 

b. Tag PDX to YKM-SEA creating one-stop service and adding direct 

frequencies in the YKM-PDX market. 

2. The PDX service can be added after successfully increasing the SEA 

frequencies to 4 or 5 per day. 

3. A 2013 YKM passenger survey commissioned by The City of Yakima showed 

Portland was the overwhelming preference for the next new destination. 

2. Improve performance on existing Alaska/Horizon Schedule.

This top priority of the Yakima Strategic Plan is critical to the basic structure of the 

Yakima air service development since it connects the YKM passengers with much of the 

National Transportation System. However, for many of the key markets, the routing is 

very circuitous, particularly for the destinations east of Yakima. Over 42% of Alaska’s 

entire route system flows through their SEA hub. 

Currently Alaska/Horizon schedules 3 flights per day in Yakima that are showing an 

average load factor (72%), well below the AS average of 86.5%, and therefore could be 

at risk of being further reduced or eliminated. 

Convenient, frequent service to the Seattle hub is critical to access of the Yakima 

market to a wide range of destinations in the National Transportation System. See 

Alaska’s SEA route map below. The current pattern of YKM-SEA service has 5 to 7 

hour gaps between flights and forces many air travelers to seek alternatives. 

There are mitigating factors that help support the continuation of the existing service. 

These are: 

 The YKM market has been consistently served by Horizon/Alaska for more than 

25 years, establishing a close, long term partnership between the two entities. 

 There is substantial potential for increased loads at the Yakima Air Terminal 

based on the high percentage of leakage overall (72%, with the majority to SEA 

(51%). 

 The Yakima market area consists of 250,000-270,000 residents, strong enough 

demographics to support a substantial increase in service. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 10 

 The YKM flights feed the primary SEA connecting banks, therefore providing a 

high percentage of beyond segment passengers and revenue. 

The RED LINE shown above represents the arrivals of the YKM flights into SEA. 

 While the arrivals are very well scheduled for a 3x per day schedule, they are 5 to 7 

hours apart. The early morning, at 0640, is critical to meeting the largest connecting 

bank for AS at SEA. Also, it should be emphasized the arrivals are a function of the 

timing of the SEA-YKM departures, which are timed to meet the YKM inbound 

connections shown in the chart on the next page. 

The Alaska Airlines Planning and Scheduling department has been very responsive to 

Yakima’s needs by maximizing connection opportunities in Seattle. In fact, the important 

early morning departure from Yakima, which is funded by an overnight aircraft leaving 

SEA at 2310, costs Alaska a double crew as there is not a sufficient rest period. That 

totals hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, demonstrating Alaska’s willingness to 

strengthen the Yakima feed traffic. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 11 

The RED LINE shown above represents the departures of the SEA flights into YKM. 

As with the YKM Arrival pattern, the departures from SEA to YKM are 6 to 7 hours 

apart, creating long layovers for many of the returning travelers, and exacerbating the 

72% leakage from YKM described earlier. 

Given three frequencies a day, the timing of both the outbound and inbound Yakima 

flights maximizes the market coverage, particularly the connecting opportunities to the 

National air transportation system. Unfortunately, this pattern continues to leave gaps in 

the schedule. 

 The Yakima community has consistently supported air service: 

♦ Hired a leading transportation consultant in 2005 to study the Yakima 

air service market 

♦ Contracted with Airplanners LLC, a consulting firm specializing in air 

service development for small communities, in 2013 

♦ Developed a FLY YKM Marketing Program in 2013 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 12 

♦ Formed an Airport Advisory Committee of prominent private and public 

leaders. 

♦ Supported the Delta, Salt Lake service in 2007-2008 

 Contributed $150,000 in cash from private funds 

 Developed a travel account of 92 businesses in the Yakima 

area that contributed $500,000 for travel costs. 

 The Delta-Northwest Merger was announced in April, 2008, the 

same year the YKM-SLC service was dropped by Delta in 

September, 2008. Therefore, the service appeared more a 

victim of the merger than economics as the load factors were 

close to 80%, feeding a major hub with long haul traffic. 

Given all the positives, the overriding consideration for Alaska/Horizon, or any other 

airline considering increased service, is financial. The fact that a YKM-SEA segment 

load factor in the low 70th percentile, versus a system average of over 86% 

presents an immediate need to implement the Yakima Strategic Plan with The 

Alaska Airlines Group. 

3. Strengthen Alaska-Yakima partnership through joint marketing and programs

Alaska’s Marketing Department has committed cooperation in coordinating a marketing 

program within Yakima County and an inbound visitor campaign to the region. Alaska 

has agreed to perform the role of an ad agency and production firm at no cost to the 

City of Yakima. They will also offer special fares during certain periods, and passenger 

data and insight on how the marketing program is affecting load factors. The City of 

Yakima will have the final review of ad messages. Alaska is thrilled that the Yakima 

community is willing to pursue a partnership through a marketing campaign to insure 

better load factors and in turn improved service. The requested SCASD Program 

grant funding will allow the development of promotional fares, advertising 

campaigns, traffic studies, and other initiatives to increase YKM demand.

Yakima Air Service Development Efforts over the Last 4 Years

Since 2011, there have been a number of actions that impact the development of air 

service at Yakima Air Terminal/McAllister Field. These include: 

 2011-2013: Yakima representatives continue their ongoing discussions with 

Alaska Air Group, at least twice per year. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 13 

 2012: City of Yakima hired an Economic Development Manager to work with 

airport staff, Alaska Airlines, consultants, and government officials to promote air 

service development. 

 2012: City of Yakima hires a new City Manager with a track record of promoting 

air service development. 

 2012: The City and County of Yakima issued an RFP for Air Service 

Development & Consulting Services. 

 2013: The County of Yakima transferred ownership of Yakima Air 

Terminal/McAllister Field to the City of Yakima to allow for more focused air 

service development programs 

 2013: The City retained Airplanners LLC, a highly respected Air Service 

Development consulting firm specializing in promoting commercial air service 

from small communities. 

 2013: City officials or their representatives are in constant contact with Alaska 

Airlines, with communications every week. 

 2013: Formed Airport Advisory Committee of Yakima business and government 

leaders to meet on a quarterly basis with The City Manager, Manager of 

Economic Development, and Airport Director regarding air service development. 

 2013: City of Yakima hired RRC & Associates to conduct air service focused 

surveys with: 

o Air Travelers 

o Local Businesses 

o The Lodging Association 

 In total, over 400 individuals were surveyed resulting in the following findings: 

o 72% of the air travelers from Yakima fly out of other airports 

o 70% of the 72% drive to Seattle to start their trip 

o Many Yakima travelers do not want to wait in Seattle for long layovers 

o Recommended improvements to the airport facilities

o Recommended improvements to the Alaska schedule 

o Were dissatisfied with the high fares. 

o Only 18% of air travelers drove to Pasco to start their trip. 

o Recommended Portland as their next destination choice. 

 

Summary of Yakima Strategic Plan 

 

Year 1 – October, 2014 – September, 2015 

 Meet with Alaska/Horizon to detail action items for air service improvements 

o Schedule adjustments if needed 

 Propose addition of Portland service 

 Nonstop to PDX 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 14 

 Tag to existing SEA-YKM flights 

o Promotion of the Yakima air service 

o Revenue incentives to Alaska for YKM service 

o Yakima promotions on respective web sites 

o Alaska to develop advertising content with YKM approval. 

 Radio and print advertising in Seattle and Yakima catchment area. 

 Start proprietary travel card program. 

Year 2 – October, 2015 – September, 2016 

 Continue to strengthen the Alaska Airlines partnership and implement SEA/PDX 

schedule improvements. 

 Finalize Alaska requirements to begin the PDX service. 

o Revenue Guarantees 

o Options for schedules 

o Share promotion 

o Start-up plan 

 New routes would focus on access the synergy of the YKM route network. 

 Develop an advertising campaign for the new service 

 Expand the proprietary travel card program from Year 1. 

 

Yakima Strategic Plan Budget

Sources of Funds 

Examples of non-airport sources of cash are the following FLY YKM campaign. 

 City of Yakima 

 Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce 

 Yakima Lodging Association 

 Yakima Convention & Visitors Bureau 

 Members of the Airport Advisory Committee 

 Office of Economic Development 

 Individual Businesses 

 Private Educational Institutions 

 Business Interests from the Yakima Catchment Area 

Non-airport sources will contribute a total of $290,000 in cash as well as another 

$500,000 from in-kind sources. The source of cash contributions is the FLY YKM 

Campaign, similar to the organization developed for the Delta service to Salt Lake City 

in 2007-2008. In that campaign, 92 organizations in the Yakima Catchment area 

contributed a total of $150,000 in cash as well as deposited additional funds of 

$500,000 in a prepaid travel. It should be noted the deposits were not “promises” to buy 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 15 

tickets, but cash committed for travel on Delta. Yakima will develop a similar program 

for the Two Year Strategic Plan using a proprietary gift card concept. Even though the 

$500,000 will be funded, for purposes of this Application, it is being defined as In-Kind 

source of funds. 

Strategic Plan Cash Budget – Year 1 (10/14-9/15), Year 2(10/15-9/16)

Source of Funds 

 Year 1 Year 2 Total 

US DOT SCASD Program $125,000 $165,000 $290,000 

Airport 

 Cash $0 $0 $0 

 InKind Waive Landing Fees $0 $25,000 $25,000 

 InKind Waive Rents/Gate Fees $0 $25,000 $25,000 

Non-Airport 

 Cash Fly YKM $125,000 $165,000 $290,000 

 InKind Marketing & Promotions $100,000 $100,000 $200,000 

 InKind Travel Card Program $125,000 $125,000 $250,000 

Total Cash $250,000 $330,000 $580,000 

 % 

Cash 

US DOT 50% 50% 50% 

 % 

Cash 

Non-Airport 50% 50% 50% 

Total In-Kind Non-Cash $225,000 $275,000 $500,000 

Total Funds $475,000 $605,000 $1,080,000 

 % 

Total 

US DOT 26% 27% 27% 

 % 

Total 

Non-Airport 74% 73% 73% 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 16 

Uses of Cash Funds

 Year 1 Year 2 Total 

In Yakima Catchment 

Area

Print $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 

Broadcast Media $10,000 $15,000 $25,000 

Outdoor $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 

Web Banners $10,000 $15,000 $25,000 

Social Media $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 

Public Relations $5,000 $10,000 $15,000 

Market Research $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 

Travel Promotions $20,000 $25,000 $45,000 

Administration $17,000 $17,000 $34,000 

Outside YKM Area 

Broadcast Media $40,000 $50,000 $90,000 

Print $15,000 $30,000 $45,000 

PR - Studies $10,000 $20,000 $30,000 

Airline Programs 

Advert & Admin. $40,000 $40,000 $80,000 

Airline Web Site $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 

Inflight Magazine $15,000 $15,000 $30,000 

 Incentives $18,000 $53,000 $71,000 

TOTAL $250,000 $330,000 $580,000 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 17 

Airport Status

YKM Current Airport and Planned Improvements

Currently the airport has five active projects which include: 

 Airport Master Plan Update 

o Airport specific document presenting the capital development needs of the 

airport over 20 years 

o Projected Costs: $500,000 

o Projected Completion: September 2014 

 Terminal Apron Rehabilitation 

o Preservation of existing concrete panels 

o Install backer rods, crack sealant, and spall repairs 

o Install new pavement markings for air carrier operations 

o Project Costs: $583,717 

o Projected Completion: July 2014 

 Taxiway Alpha, A1-A5; Taxiway B, C Partial (between Runway 9/27 and Taxiway 

Alpha) Rehabilitation; Taxiway Lights & Signs; Segmented Circle 

o Expand Taxiway width to meet current FAA standards

o Mill and overlay old Taxiway and replace with new asphalt

o Replacement of Taxiway edge lights with LED lights

o Replacement of Taxiway guidance signs with LED signs (airfield wide)

o Update airfield pavement markings to meet current FAA standards

o Projected Costs: $11,171,774 

o Projected Completion: June 2015 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 18 

 Snow Removal Equipment Purchase (Carrier & Broom) 

o Equipment will remove snow and ice from Runways and Taxiways 

o Increase braking action for aircraft operations by exposing asphalt 

o Project Costs: $485,636 

o Projected Delivery: July 2015 

 Land Acquisition of approximately 3.0 acres for additional hangar space 

o Projected Costs $1,000,000 

o Projected Completion: June 2015 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 19 

Total Capital Improvement Projects: $13,741,127

All projects are funded through the Airport Improvement Program (90%) with a Passenger 

Facility Charge match (10%). 

The airport currently has two airline ticket counters (Alaska and one vacant) with facilities 

supporting both operations (baggage belts, baggage sorting areas, operations area, etc). The 

terminal has one baggage claim area and also one screening lane for passengers to traverse from 

the public area to the sterile area. 

Inside the sterile area (concourse) there are five passenger gates to support approximately 4 

aircraft parking slots. All passenger loading is ground up or air stairs is used for larger aircraft. 

The airport has short term, long term, cell phone parking lots as well as a Rent-A-Car lot for 

Budget, Hertz and Avis. Employee parking lot is located just west of the terminal building to 

provide support staff with ample parking. Following is a diagram (floor level) of the terminal 

that explains the layout. 
Application of The City of Yakima Under the 2014 SCASD Grant Program 

Docket DOT-OST-2014-0113 Page 20 

From an operational standpoint the terminal can operate normally with the 

addition of another airline and increased passenger numbers.